Houlton recreation center focus of hearing

HOULTON, Maine — Town councilors have pegged May 18 as the first date on which they will engage the public in a discussion about improving the town’s recreation center.

“We will host the work session to discuss what to do with the Gentle Memorial Building,” Chairman Paul Cleary said Monday evening. “The public can come and give us input on how to move forward.”

The Gentle Memorial Building offers children and adults the opportunity to play basketball, take aerobics classes, and enjoy activities such as dance and science camps.

Last month, residents approached councilors with ideas about offering more activities inside the two-story building.

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Councilor Sue Tortello said the council should talk more about comments and suggestions made to councilors regarding improving the Gentle Memorial Building through repairs, expansion or even building a new facility.

Councilors have been open to discussion, but have acknowledged the biggest obstacle will be the cost of the project.

The group wants to lean on grants and fundraising to support the majority of the cost of any changes to the building.